buckle up

The phrase "buckle up" originated from the action of fastening a seatbelt but has expanded into an idiom advising preparation for challenging situations.

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ US Voice:
πŸ‡¬πŸ‡§ UK Voice:

Definition

A2Travel

(literal)To fasten a seatbelt in a vehicle or aircraft.

Example

  • Before the car starts moving, everyone needs to buckle up.
  • The flight attendant reminded passengers to buckle up during turbulence.

B2General

(idiomatic)To prepare oneself for something challenging or demanding.

Example

  • The project is going to be tough, so buckle up and get ready.
  • Buckle up, it's going to be a wild ride.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "buckle up":

buckle inbelt upbrace upbuck upsaddle upbundle upgear uphold onto your hatsafety beltseat belt signhold tighthitch upruck upknuckle upnut upbatten downhang tightbadge upbunker uptighten upcowboy upfasten downsuit upsack upget readybuck outsit back